Following on from the launch of Juno’s 7 last November, Fortitude 1 marks the second hull of the Benetti Class 44M series. The event featured a traditional slide launch, attended by the English owners, their guests, local authorities, and the Benetti team.
The ceremony celebrated the culmination of a detailed build process, which Burgess had been closely involved with from the very beginning—well before the contract was signed.
Built in fiberglass over a displacement hull, the yacht measures 44.06 meters in length with a beam of 9.05 meters and a draft of 2.3 meters. Exterior and interior design were developed by Giorgio M. Cassetta, who worked to deliver a yacht that balances functionality with refined aesthetics. The layout spans three decks, finished with a light, bright palette chosen by the owners to echo the atmosphere of their previous Benetti yacht. Shades of white and beige dominate the interior, complemented by subtle blue details. White marble has been used extensively on the main deck, creating a luminous, almost dazzling effect.
The owners wanted to further amplify the natural light in her interiors, which are already very bright, by choosing white marble almost everywhere. This added a further piece in the search for a ‘blinding light’ that makes Fortitude 1 a unique project in the group of boats we are building, her ‘close sisters’.”
Designer
Accommodation onboard the motor yacht is arranged for up to 10 guests across five suites, supported by a crew of eight. The main salon features expansive windows that flood the space with natural light, while the upper deck includes an elegant bar area for socializing and entertaining.
Power for Fortitude 1 comes from twin MAN V-12 1400 diesel engines, each delivering 1,400hp at 2,300rpm. This setup allows for a top speed of 15 knots, with a comfortable cruising speed of 14 knots and an impressive range of 3,800 nautical miles at 11 knots. The yacht’s fuel tanks hold up to 60,000 liters, giving her genuine long-distance cruising capability.
Burgess, acting as project manager, ensured the yacht was built to exacting standards for both private enjoyment and future charter operations, which they will oversee. The brief included careful consideration of specifications to optimize the vessel for charter use while maintaining the owner's preferences for design and comfort.
A Refined Follow-Up to Juno’s 7
The launch of Fortitude 1 follows the debut of Juno’s 7, the first Class 44M, which introduced key features such as a 102-square-meter sun deck, advanced soundproofing, and design details like antique elm flooring and striped ash walls. While Fortitude 1 retains the Class 44M’s signature profile and build features, it’s clear that each superyacht in the series brings its own character.
The launch of Fortitude 1 underscores Benetti’s approach to building yachts for experienced owners—delivering reliable, capable vessels that prioritize practicality, comfort, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. The Class 44M series continues to evolve, with each hull reflecting a unique interpretation of the design by Giorgio M. Cassetta, tailored to the lifestyle and preferences of each owner.
Fortitude 1 is scheduled for delivery later this year.
Benetti’s Most Popular Models: Oasis, B.Now, and B.Yond in High Demand
Benetti’s latest order book reveals a strong focus on lifestyle-oriented yachts with long-range capabilities. The Benetti Oasis 34M has become the shipyard’s most in-demand model, with 11 hulls currently under construction. This fiberglass tri-deck yacht is known for its distinctive open aft deck, featuring fold-down terraces and a saltwater infinity pool. Interiors by Bonetti/Kozerski embrace a relaxed, sporty aesthetic that complements the yacht’s 2,700-nautical-mile range, making it suited for both extended cruising and casual coastal living.
The Benetti Oasis 40M builds on this success, offering a larger platform with a 4,000-nautical-mile range and a layout that prioritizes informal charm alongside practical features.
The Benetti B.Yond 37M stands apart as a steel-hulled explorer, designed for owners seeking adventure. With a 5,000-nautical-mile range, a four-deck layout, up to seven cabins, and a generous tender garage, it reflects growing demand for ocean-ready yachts that emphasize flexibility and functionality.
The launch of Fortitude 1 reflects Benetti’s ability to deliver custom superyachts that balance style, function, and performance. As the Class 44M series expands, Benetti’s focus on lifestyle-led design continues to drive demand across its popular models.
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